Hola, food enthusiasts! It is rumoured that there are more than 50 different ways to make and enjoy eggs. One of these delightful ways to savour this delightful ingredient is a Spanish omelette, aka, tortillas española. Following the ambrosia of this marvellous dish, let us embark on a flavorful journey to Spain. Today, we explore the rich history behind this iconic dish, which is a culinary masterpiece that has stood the test of time, winning hearts and palettes around the world with its simple yet exquisite flavours.
A brief history of the Spanish omelette recipe
The origins of the Spanish omelette recipe can be traced back to the 19th century in Spain. Legend has it that a Spanish general, Tomás de Zumalacárregui, invented this dish during the Carlist Wars. Facing a scarcity of food, he created a dish with readily available ingredients like potatoes, eggs, and onions. This resourceful creation turned out to be not only a survival meal but also a delicious and enduring culinary legacy.
Why is it called the 'Spanish omelette'?
The name 'Spanish Omelette' might be a bit misleading, as it differs from the typical omelette you might be familiar with. Unlike its French counterpart, the Spanish omelette recipe results in a hearty, thick disk of potatoes and eggs, bound together in a marriage of delicious simplicity.
The iconic Spanish omelette recipe
Now, let's dive into crafting the delectable Spanish omelette recipe in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 6 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1- Prep the potatoes:
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced potatoes to the hot oil and cook until they are tender but not crispy. This may take about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 2- Sauté the onions:
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the finely chopped onions to the skillet. Continue cooking until the onions are translucent and the potatoes are golden brown. This combination creates the flavorful base of the Spanish omelette.
Step 3- Beat the eggs:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper to taste. The eggs will bind the potatoes and onions together, creating a delicious and satisfying texture.
Step 4- Combine it up:
Pour the beaten eggs over the potato and onion mixture in the skillet. Gently stir the ingredients to ensure an even distribution of eggs throughout the dish.
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Step 5- Cook the omelette:
Allow the mixture to cook on low heat until the edges start to set. Carefully flip the omelette using a large plate or lid. Slide it back into the skillet to cook the other side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6- Serve and enjoy:
Once both sides are cooked to perfection, transfer the Spanish Omelette to a serving plate. Slice it into wedges, and there you have it—a delicious and authentic Spanish Omelette ready to be savoured!
This versatile dish is perfect for any meal, whether it's breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Pair it with a side salad or serve it with crusty bread to complete the Spanish dining experience. If you want even more protein and flavour in your Spanish Omelette, add a little parmesano rallado, or grated parmesan, either on top or in the egg mixture to enjoy a delectable little treat. The cheese Spanish omelette is an evolution of the original recipe, but no less delicious for it. Feliz desayuno!